Empowered Funds LLC Announces ETFs Liquidation, De-listing
MWN-AI** Summary
Empowered Funds, LLC has officially announced the impending liquidation and delisting of two of its exchange-traded funds (ETFs), the Strive International Developed Markets ETF (NYSE: STXI) and the Strive Mid-Cap ETF (NYSE: STXM). Scheduled for around March 27, 2026, this decision follows a comprehensive review of the funds' investment strategies and the anticipated demand from investors.
Effective immediately after the close of trading on March 26, 2026, these ETFs will cease trading on the New York Stock Exchange and will not accept new purchase orders. Shareholders have until this Closing Date to sell their holdings, although they may encounter liquidity challenges, as there is no guarantee of active trading in the funds’ shares during this period. It is important to note that any ongoing investments may deviate from the funds' stated objectives as they may increase cash holdings leading up to the liquidation.
On approximately March 30, 2026, the funds will distribute cash pro rata to shareholders of record as of the Liquidation Date, which will be treated as a taxable event, potentially resulting in capital gains or losses based on the shareholders' tax basis. Shareholders are advised to consult with their tax advisors regarding the implications of these distributions, which may also incorporate accrued capital gains and dividends.
This liquidation marks a significant shift for Empowered Funds, LLC, as it evaluates its ETF offerings within the competitive financial landscape. As always, investors are encouraged to carefully consider the associated risks before making investment decisions, and detailed information can be accessed via their official channels.
MWN-AI** Analysis
The recent announcement by Empowered Funds LLC regarding the liquidation and de-listing of two ETFs, the Strive International Developed Markets ETF (NYSE: STXI) and the Strive Mid-Cap ETF (NYSE: STXM), raises significant considerations for investors. Scheduled for liquidation around March 27, 2026, this move reflects a careful reassessment of investor demand and fund strategies.
For current shareholders, immediate action is advisable given the impending closure. Investors must grasp that after the market closes on March 26, 2026, they will no longer have the ability to purchase shares, and selling options may become limited as liquidity dwindles. Given the potential difficulty in trading shares until liquidation, those holding positions should consider executing sell orders before the Closing Date to avoid potential losses or challenges in finding buyers.
Tax implications are another critical factor; the liquidation proceeds may result in capital gains taxes depending on a shareholder's cost basis. This scenario underscores the importance of consulting with tax advisors to navigate the potential impact on financial portfolios efficiently. Understanding the tax consequences can help in strategizing sales and reinvestment of funds post-liquidation.
Investors also need to assess the broader market context that led to such a decision. The liquidation may signal shifts in investment trends or underlying strategies that no longer align with market demand. This could be a cue to diversify holdings and explore other ETF options that align more closely with evolving market conditions.
Lastly, remaining attentive to communications from Empowered Funds will be crucial. As the liquidation date approaches, updates regarding the net asset values and liquidation process will inform strategic decisions for shareholders looking to optimize their investment outcomes.
**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.
PR Newswire
NEWTOWN SQUARE, Pa., March 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Empowered Funds, LLC today announced the scheduled liquidation on or about March 27, 2026 (the Liquidation Date) of the following ETFs (the Funds):
- Strive International Developed Markets ETF (NYSE: STXI)
- Strive Mid-Cap ETF (NYSE: STXM)
The Funds are being liquidated based on a review of the products' strategies and anticipated investor demand.
The Funds will cease trading on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") and will be closed to purchase by investors immediately after the close of regular trading on March 26, 2026 (the "Closing Date"). The Funds will not accept purchase orders after the Closing Date.
Shareholders may sell their holdings in the Funds on or prior to the Closing Date, and customary brokerage charges will apply to these transactions. However, shareholders may only be able to sell their shares to certain broker-dealers, and there is no assurance that there will be a market for the Funds' shares during this period. During the period up to the Liquidation Date, all or a portion of each Fund may not be invested in a manner consistent with its stated investment objective and strategies, and each Fund may increase its cash holdings.
On or about March 30, 2026, the Funds will distribute cash pro rata to all shareholders of record as of the Liquidation Date, subject to any required withholding. Liquidation proceeds paid to shareholders generally should be treated as received in exchange for shares and will therefore be treated as a taxable event giving rise to a capital gain or loss depending on a shareholder's tax basis. Shareholders should contact their tax advisor to discuss the tax consequences of the liquidation. In addition, these payments to shareholders may include distributions of accrued capital gains and dividends. As calculated on the Liquidation Date, the Funds' net asset value will reflect the costs of closing the Funds, if any. Once the distributions are complete, the Funds will terminate.
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Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal.
Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses carefully before investing. For a prospectus or summary prospectus with this and other information about the Funds, please call 1.855.427.7360 or visit our website at https://www.strivefunds.com/. Read the prospectus or summary prospectus carefully before investing.
The Funds are distributed by PINE Distributors, LLC. The Funds' investment adviser is Empowered Funds, LLC, which is doing business as ETF Architect. Strive Asset Management, LLC serves as the sub-adviser to the Funds. PINE Distributors LLC is not affiliated with ETF Architect or Strive Asset Management, LLC.
Contact:
ETF Architect
(215) 330-4476
SOURCE ETF Architect
FAQ**
What were the primary factors influencing Empowered Funds LLC's decision to liquidate the EA Series Trust Strive International Developed Markets STXI, and were there specific indicators of low investor demand?
How will the liquidation of the EA Series Trust Strive International Developed Markets STXI impact existing shareholders in terms of potential capital gains or losses?
Are there any specific strategies that Empowered Funds LLC plans to implement to ensure a smooth liquidation process for the EA Series Trust Strive International Developed Markets STXI?
What options do shareholders of the EA Series Trust Strive International Developed Markets STXI have for selling their shares prior to the announced Closing Date of March 26, 2026?
**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about EA Series Trust Strive Mid-Cap (NYSE: STXM).
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